A woman mistaken for a kidnapper, was on Wednesday reportedly killed by an irate mob at the popular Ipata market area in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital.

Tribune Online gathered that the event happened at about 9:00 am, when the woman, who was later discovered to be a destitute, was seen wandering around the community.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, who confirmed the incident in a statement, described it as unfortunate.

“The Kwara State Police Command wishes to bring to the attention of the general public an unfortunate incident that occurred on Wednesday at about 09:00 am around the popular Ipata market area of Ilorin.

“Information received was that a woman, suspected to be destitute, was sighted wandering around the community; misinformed members of the public wrongly suspected her to be a kidnapper. In the ensuing circumstances, an irate mob descended on the woman, inflicting serious bodily harm.

“Upon swift mobilisation, Police patrol teams raced to the scene, rescued the victim and rushed her to the General Hospital, Ilorin, for urgent medical attention.

“Regrettably, the attending doctor confirmed her death as a result of injuries sustained. Her remains have been deposited at the hospital mortuary, while a discreet investigation has commenced.

“The Kwara State Police Command strongly condemns the act of jungle justice, which not only undermines the rule of law but also poses a grave danger to innocent lives. Security challenges cannot be resolved through mob action. Rather, they worsen insecurity and erode public safety.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo psc, mnips urge members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and to always report suspicious persons or movements to the nearest Police formation, he appeals to the good people of Kwara to partner with the Police in upholding law, order, and justice while rejecting all forms of mob violence.” (Nigerian Tribune)